Thick black smoke rolled over downtown National City before dawn today as firefighters battled a fast-moving blaze tearing through a commercial building near East 3rd Street and National City Boulevard. The early morning fire drew a large response and sent towering plumes into the sky, visible from far beyond the scene. Crews worked to keep the structure from collapsing while officials reported there were no injuries.
Early details from the scene
According to FOX 5 San Diego, the fire was first reported at about 4:45 AM in the area of East 3rd Street and National City Boulevard, sending thick plumes of black smoke into the sky. The outlet reported no injuries and said evacuation orders had not been issued. A photo shared with the report was credited to KSWB, and crews were still on scene as firefighters worked to secure the building.
What crews said
Battalion Chief James Stiles told FOX 5 San Diego that firefighters "noticed separation in the building's walls," which prompted commanders to pull crews back and shift to a safer, more defensive position. He said the use of aerial water towers helped firefighters get water onto the flames from above and keep the building from collapsing while crews worked to knock down the fire.
Response and timeline
According to 10News, the structure at 241 National City Boulevard, near 3rd Street, triggered a second-alarm response and was reported at roughly 4:55 AM. A 10News photojournalist captured images of flames breaking through the roof, and the outlet reported that crews had the main body of the fire under control by about 5:30 AM. Investigators stayed at the site as firefighters monitored remaining hot spots.
Why this site matters
City planning records show a proposal for 229–241 National City Boulevard, a redevelopment discussed at a September planning commission hearing, indicating the property had been considered for demolition before work stalled, according to National City planning documents. Fire commanders said the site had drawn multiple calls in recent months as crews continued to check the derelict structure for hazards.
What comes next
Investigators are working to determine what sparked the blaze, while National City Fire Department crews monitor for lingering hot spots and structural risks. For official updates and safety information, visit the National City Fire Department.
